FDA Urges Public Vigilance Following Viral Video on Alleged Use of Toxic ‘Akeshaa’ in Food

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has officially addressed public concerns regarding food safety following a viral video alleging the use of harmful substances in street food. In a press statement issued on January 28, 2026, the Authority urged consumers to be alert and report any suspicious food products or preparation practices, especially those characterized by unusual chemical odors. The advisory comes as a response to claims that vendors were incorporating a toxic bleaching agent known as ‘Akeshaa’ into popular local dishes such as waakye, okro, and ayoyo soup.

Following the circulation of the social media video, the FDA conducted routine market investigations to verify the allegations. The Authority clarified that the substance identified in the video was not the toxic bleaching agent ‘Akeshaa’, but rather sodium carbonate, commonly referred to as light soda ash. The FDA emphasized that sodium carbonate is a globally approved food additive used in regulated amounts to improve the texture and color of certain traditional dishes, and it does not pose a health risk when used appropriately.

Despite the clarification regarding this specific incident, the FDA issued a stern warning regarding the actual substance ‘Akeshaa’. The Authority emphasized that this bleaching agent is highly toxic and can lead to severe health complications if ingested. The confusion between safe additives like soda ash and dangerous chemicals like ‘Akeshaa’ highlights the need for rigorous market monitoring and public awareness. The FDA advised that while light soda ash is permissible, any food preparation that results in a strong, unnatural chemical smell should be treated with suspicion and reported immediately.

Moving forward, the FDA has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of the Ghanaian food supply through continuous market surveillance and consumer education. The Authority encouraged the public to remain vigilant when purchasing food and to utilize their reporting channels to flag non-compliant vendors or suspicious practices. By maintaining strict adherence to food safety laws and fostering a culture of accountability among food handlers, the FDA aims to safeguard public health and restore confidence in local food preparation practices.